Gabrielles Hand by Bob Boguslaw & The Way

The group, recently named "The Way," has been a part of the D.C. jazz scene for a decade. They appeared at the Kennedy Center, the National Building Museum, the Corcoran Gallery plus Blues Alley. Boguslaw has performed with such diverse acts as Moody Blues, Aretha Franklin, Bo Diddley and Smokey Robinson. The pianist contributes five of the eight tracks. Another, "A Harry Situation," is penned by guitarist Rob Levit who guests on two of the leader's pieces, "Do The Math" and "White Out."

Drummer Frank Russo is a featured performer on this disc. This reviewer was introduced to the veteran percussionist's ample talents some years ago. He collaborated with reedman Pete BarenBregge on their compelling album PF Flyer reviewed here in 2003. Russo has performed with dozens of major jazz and pop acts from Mundell Lowe to The Coasters.

Pete BarenBregge is a well-known Washington figure. For years, he was part of the military big band called "Airmen Of Note." The band came under his leadership in recent years. BarenBregge is a resourceful and versatile reedman. Bassist Aaron Clay is the principal bassist of the Fairfax Symphony Orchestra and a proven jazz performer.

Bob Boguslaw and The Way cook nicely throughout this album. Boguslaw's keyboard talents come to the forefront on "Do The Math," "Bright Blues" and "Snake Bit." Every new album seems to generate some favorites for reviewers and, in this case, they are the leader's "White Out" and "Gabrielle's Hand." The latter was named for Boguslaw's teenage daughter. The group offers a nice reading of Simon & Garfunkle's "Scarborough Fair."

Gabrielle's Hand is a fine effort. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to find sound samples for you.